Technique Lab Program – Module 3/8

Plucking with the Ring Finger

Hey guys, I just posted a new lesson for the Technique Lab Program Module 3/8.

In this lesson we are going to be plucking with the ring finger for the first time. The exercise is very simple and straightforward with just few chords and a very simple melody.

As always, take things step by step and spend a reasonable amount of time on this exercise before moving on to the next one.

About the Exercise

Key: A minor

Technique: Fingerstyle arpeggio plucking with the ring finger.

Fingerstyle pattern: There are three different plucking pattern in this exercise. The first one is P-a-m-i repeated twice, then P-i-m-a one time and alternate m-i for the four note melody.

Sections: The exercise is very simple with only seven bars and few chords.

Level: For beginners.

How to practice: One of the most important thing you want to develop with this exercise is the balance between thumb and plucking fingers. There are three things you must follow in order to benefit from this exercise:

With the fingers, pluck the strings with a 45 degree angle. With the thumb always pluck with the side of the fingers. By using a 45 degree angle you will achieve a better control and tone.
Articulation is everything. Use a wide movement to pluck the strings and don’t be afraid of “moving too much”. By using a wide articulation (explained in the video) you will develop a solid control. Don’t be extreme. Follow the video to learn how to pluck the strings with articulation.
Switch between pattern fluently and without pausing. This is a mistake beginners run into quite a lot. Play as evenly as possible and use a metronome if you need.